5 Great Ways To Manage MS-Related Fatigue

The fatigue that comes from multiple sclerosis (MS) can significantly affect your quality of life. Unfortunately, studies show that as much as 80% of people with the illness will have to deal with fatigue and sleeplessness. If you take certain steps to combat these issues, however, it should make it easier for you to get some more rest and actually feel as if you’ve slept.

5 Tips For Managing Fatigue And Sleeplessness With MS

1. Take Scheduled Breaks

Having MS usually means that you can’t tackle your day as wholeheartedly as you used to. Experts recommend building scheduled breaks into your routine so you can give your body a chance to rest.

Despite what you might think, this rest doesn’t mean taking a nap. Naps are more likely to throw off your sleep schedule and make it harder for you to go to bed when the time comes. Instead, focus on relaxing activities that engage your mind without requiring physical movement.

2. Plan Your Activities

It helps to have a daily to-do list so you can prepare yourself for what you need to do. The list also makes it easier to get high-priority tasks out of the way at the point of your day when your energy is highest.

Having fewer or no assignments during low-energy periods is a good way to manage stress, which in turn leads to fatigue. When you’re planning your day, make sure to include any support from others that can increase your efficiency.

3. Keep Active

This one might sound counterintuitive since you’re already trying to conserve your energy. However, it’s been shown that consistent exercise can increase your energy, help with stress management, and improve your overall health.

The key is to find the right balance that works for you. It’s been estimated that a blend of aerobics and strength training is good for people with MS. You could try taking a short walk, a burst of cycling, or 15 minutes of yoga. To be on the safe side, ask your doctor what your best options are.

4. Pay Attention To Your Body

Though you may have a plan, things may change. You may not have as much energy as expected because you’re having a flare-up or a particular task required more than you’d planned for. Extreme changes in temperature, repeatedly reaching over your head, sitting or standing for too long, and fumes from the environment can also negatively affect your ability to be productive.

Additionally, some people with MS may have trouble maintaining their energy levels if they carry large loads or spend too much time hunched over their workstations.

5. Eat With A Purpose

When you need to manage fatigue, being more mindful with your eating can help. Instead of having three large meals daily, which can make you sluggish, focus on small energy-rich meals throughout the day.

Studies show that a diet that focuses on fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains usually contributes to your overall health. Being healthier, in general, can improve your energy, how you deal with stress, and your physical activity. Avoiding heavy meals before bed, alcohol, and caffeine also helps you reduce those sleepless nights.

When You Need To See Your Doctor

While fatigue and sleeping problems can be associated with MS, it doesn’t mean you shouldn’t tell your doctor about them. These issues can be a sign that your illness is worsening and needs to be managed differently.

For example, lesions on certain areas of the brain can interfere with sleep. There are also cases where your fatigue and sleeplessness aren’t directly related to MS. Depression, stress, and sleep disorders can be at the root of your problems too. As long as you’re experiencing fatigue and having trouble with sleep, you need to talk to your doctor.

People who are living with MS typically make a number of lifestyle changes to manage the disease well. Chronic fatigue and sleeplessness are a reality for many of them. If you’re dealing with them as well, the tips listed here should be able to help. You should still talk to your doctor, though.